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Spotlight Stories

UPDATE: ‘Vault fire’ response in The Junction; thousands of customers lose power
December 10, 2016 1:25 pm
|      121 COMMENTS
 |   Utilities | West Seattle fires | West Seattle news

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(First two photos by Orla Casey)

ORIGINAL REPORT, 1:25 PM: Seattle Fire is responding to a call characterized as a “minor explosion” near Fauntleroy and Alaska. At least one witness say it’s blown off a “manhole cover” near Spruce/LA Fitness. Power is out to more than 3,200 homes and businesses in West Seattle as a result, according to the City Light outage map. More to come.

1:32 PM: This has escalated to a “vault fire” callout.

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1:38 PM: Adding a photo. Lots of emergency vehicles and big traffic backups, so avoid the Fauntleroy/Alaska area TFN.

1:49 PM: City Light says they hope to restore power “within a few hours.” SFD has canceled some of the units responding to the vault fire (for the commenter who asked what that means – it’s an underground vault that’s part of the electrical system). No word of any injuries so far.

1:55 PM: Now up to more than 3,900 homes and businesses out – this is on the City Light map as two separate outages, 3,200+ and 600+. Adding a screengrab momentarily for the record:

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1:59 PM: And then … some got their power back, so the outage has returned to 3,200+. Thanks for the updates in comments – that’s usually first word of power restoration!

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2:12 PM: Commenter Matt shared the photo you see above – the smoke coming from underground right in front of Spruce/LA Fitness just after explosions were heard. Meantime, the number of homes/businesses without power is down to 1,820.

2:33 PM: Seattle Fire has completely cleared the scene, meaning the fire is out. In addition to those still without power – an outage also affecting some traffic lights in the area – we also have several mentions that Comcast service is out.

2:52 PM: Just added above, our upload of Matt’s video (linked in comments) of the vault smoke from earlier. Meantime, more comments are saying power’s back, even in the immediate vicinity. Thanks for the updates!

3:55 PM: Down to 136 out, per SCL map.

9 PM: Five hours after that note – they’re still out. Meantime, a Spruce resident has published video from the aftermath of what happened this afternoon:

9:22 PM: Minutes before the estimated time of restoration, the power’s back for all, according to the City Light map. (Call SCL if yours is NOT back yet!)

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New Admiral Way sign goes up
December 10, 2016 1:16 pm
|      11 COMMENTS
 |   Transportation | West Seattle news

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Thanks to Val for the photo: SDOT was out installing one of the final components of the SW Admiral Way project west of California SW today. The sign was described on the project map last summer as “new westbound radar feedback sign at high speed location.”

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Love walking/running in parks? ‘Soft Surface Trails Plan’ comment time
December 10, 2016 11:11 am
|      8 COMMENTS
 |   West Seattle news | West Seattle parks

Seattle Parks is working on a plan for the future of its “Soft Surface Trails” around the city. Your thoughts are being sought – including at a December 20th meeting – not in West Seattle, but not far:

This meeting provides an opportunity to learn about soft surface trails in Seattle and to provide input on the plan for trails within SPR’s natural areas. The final plan will include recommendations for trail-maintenance standards, levels of service and trail hierarchy, a determination process for how new trails are formed and overall guidance for the future of trails throughout Seattle. This plan is not specific to one particular park or area.

The trails meeting is at 6 pm December 20th at the Jefferson Horticulture Building, 1600 S. Dakota. The preview on this Parks website also includes a contact for questions and comments if you can’t make it to the meeting.

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Christmas Ships, Giving Fair, Santa Paws, more – non-holiday too! – for your West Seattle Saturday
December 10, 2016 7:02 am
|      5 COMMENTS
 |   Holidays | West Seattle news

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The snow’s mostly gone, but the memories aren’t. So we’re sharing Eugene‘s great Friday morning photo from Myrtle Reservoir Park as we look ahead to your Saturday. First, from the WSB West Seattle Holiday Guide:

SANTA! Sightings today include:

SANTA AT CAPERS: From CAPERS in The Junction, bring-your-own-camera Santa photos 9 am-noon. Free but monetary donation for the West Seattle Food Bank suggested. (4525 California SW)

SANTA AT THE SCHOOLHOUSE: Fauntleroy Schoolhouse Santa photos with Gail Ann Photography – here’s how to get an appointment, or drop in 9 am-4 pm. (9131 California SW)

SANTA PAWS: Get your Santa-and-pet photo during Santa Paws at West Seattle Windermere from 10 am-1 pm: “This is a free event that invites families, and their pets, to come take a picture with Santa! We are accepting canned-food donations for the West Seattle Food Bank.” (4526 California SW)

[UPDATE: Santa Al is actually at My Three Little Birds TOMORROW (Sunday) 11 am-2 pm!]

Also from the Holiday Guide today:

FIRST TIME EVER! West Seattle’s first Alternative Giving Fair with some 20 local and national non-profits welcoming donations that feed the hungry, support elders, care for creation, and strengthen community for all children. At Fauntleroy Church, 10 am-2 pm. Here’s a video invitation from Karyn Frazier, via the Southwest Seattle Historical Society (which is participating):

(9140 California SW)

CONCERT: Endolyne Children’s Choir “Winter Fantasy” Concert, 11 am at St. John the Baptist Episcopal Church. Free (suggested donation $5/person, $20/family). “Featuring all three of our choirs, with singers in grades K-10. We’ll perform a variety of winter and holiday favorites, including songs celebrating Christmas, Hanukkah, and Kwanzaa, among many others. Reception will follow the show.” (3050 California SW)

LUNA PARK CRAFT FAIR: 11 am-4 pm, on the patio at Luna Park Café: “Handmade crafts from Luna Park Cafe employees and friends. Original art, prints, photography, jewelry, candles, terrariums, soaps, buttons, patches and much more. Great ideas for stocking stuffers and gifts from local artists.” (2918 SW Avalon Way)

ART UNDER $100: This huge sale starts with a VIP Hour ($20 via Brown Paper Tickets) from 1:00 – 2:00 pm, then free entry 2-8 pm. Presented by South Park Arts at Seattle Design Center.” (5701 6th Ave S.)

PARTY ON THE PORCH: It’s a Holiday Party on the Porch at the Log House Museum. 2-4 pm, before the Christmas Ship comes to Alki. (61st SW/SW Stevens)

HOLIDAY CRAWL: West Seattle Santa pub crawl, 6 pm – full details in our calendar listing. 21+.

‘MIRACLE ON 34TH STREET’: Join Twelfth Night Productions this holiday season for “Miracle on 34th Street: A Live Radio Play.” The show’s at Kenyon Hall. Buy your ticket(s) online at this Brown Paper Tickets link or before the show at the venue box office. (7904 35th SW)

CHRISTMAS SHIP IN WEST SEATTLE AND SOUTH PARK: This is it – the Argosy Cruises Christmas Ship in West Seattle, plus its first-ever stop in South Park! Here are the stops are on the schedule for this night:

-3:25 to 3:45 pm at Lowman Beach Park
-4:10 to 4:30 pm at Alki Beach Park (here’s what else is happening before and after)
-8:00 to 8:15 pm at Duwamish Waterway Park in South Park
-9:05 to 9:25 pm at Salty’s on Alki (WSB sponsor)

Dickens Carolers are this evening’s performers for all stops.

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Now, from our year-round WSB West Seattle Event Calendar and inbox:

INTRO TO FLY CASTING: Free class at Lincoln Park, offered by Emerald Water Anglers (WSB sponsor) – more info in our calendar listing. (8011 Fauntleroy Way SW)

IMMIGRATION RESOURCE FAIR: At Denny International Middle School, 10 am-1 pm – details in our calendar listing. (2601 SW Kenyon)

SOUNDERS MATCH @ OUNCES: If you’re looking for someplace to watch tonight’s MLS Cup (Sounders FC vs. Toronto, 5 pm) – Ounces will have it on the screens indoors and outdoors. (3809 Delridge Way SW)

BLAKE TOMASH: Singer-songwriter performs live at C & P Coffee Company (WSB sponsor), 7-9 pm. (5612 California SW)

LIT END: 4-piece band from Olympia, live at Poggie Tavern, 9-midnight. 21+. (4717 California SW)

EVEN MORE LIVE MUSIC FOR TONIGHT … at other West Seattle venues, on our complete calendar!

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CRIME WATCH: Possible gunfire; bullet hits car; prowler bolts…
December 9, 2016 10:15 pm
|      5 COMMENTS
 |   Crime | West Seattle news

In West Seattle Crime Watch tonight:

POSSIBLE GUNFIRE: We’ve received multiple reports of what sounded like gunfire in the past hour in the Westwood area, heard around 25th SW and SW Trenton. One person told us that when they called 911, they were told others had called. All we can say so far is we haven’t heard of any victim(s) nor any scanner discussion of evidence – but as at least one recent report reminds us, that doesn’t always emerge immediately.

CAR HIT BY BULLET: Speaking of time lags, we have just received a reader report of an incident almost two weeks ago. The victims say they were headed westbound on the bridge November 27th, around 6:05 pm, when it happened, and they are looking for witnesses. A car behind them shot at theirs, they say: “The first bullet missed us from behind and the second bullet hit our rear passenger door and the bullet shattered the automated Locking System, just stopping before hitting one of us. The car who was behind us had been driving erratically and exited the Harbor Avenue exit while we were still heading toward the Admiral exit. This is where the second shot hit our car. This has been reported to the police but they don’t have enough information to find the car or the person who did it. The car from where the shots were fired was a white older Camaro with a black stripe on the center of the hood. Driver was a Caucasian male around 20s-30s, perhaps dark hair and was wearing a dark jacket.” If you have any information, contact police and refer to incident 2016-435079.

CAR PROWLED: From a car-prowl victim in Sunrise Heights:

On Wednesday (12/8) afternoon at about 3:00 pm, a couple were out walking their dog in the Sunrise Heights neighborhood and noticed a man in his early 20s, possibly Hispanic, rifling through a car on 30th between Holden and Webster. Once the car prowler realized he was being watched he jumped into a silver Honda Civic ~2010, license plate AZK2—, driven by a white female in her early 20s. A police report has been filed.

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Meet West Seattle’s newest centenarian: Happy 100th birthday, Virginia Carmichael!
December 9, 2016 8:57 pm
|      8 COMMENTS
 |   West Seattle news | West Seattle people

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Meet Virginia Carmichael, who turned 100 today! We photographed her early this week, to accompany this tribute from her family:

Virginia has resided in Seattle since 2004. That year she moved from the Northern California foothill town of Paradise.

Virginia’s family will honor her tomorrow at the West Seattle home of her eldest daughter, Susan Madrid. She celebrated at The Kenney with her fellow residents at the monthly group birthday gathering this past Monday.

Virginia’s immediate family includes a second daughter, Alice Turner from Chico, California, and two grandchildren, Leslie Harlow (Greg) from Renton and Richard Stichler (Diane) from Ringgold, Georgia. Her great-grandchildren are teenagers Anna and Sarah Harlow and young adults Evan and Jarrett Stichler.

Virginia was born near Auburn in south King County in 1916. Her maternal/paternal extended families lived and worked in the Tacoma area.

When she was 3, her immediate family moved to California, eventually settling in Stockton, where she attended school and lived until she and her husband, James Carmichael, whom she married in 1939, retired in the mid 1970s. James died in 2002.

Virginia owned a knit shop in Stockton. She is accomplished in all forms of needlework and sewing, using these skills to be successful in her business. She still knits baby sweaters and afghans that are donated to WestSide Baby. Her guilty pleasures are watching “Curious George” on PBS and Rocky Road ice cream.

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The Whale Trail’s first Orca Talk of the season
December 9, 2016 6:47 pm
|    Comments Off on The Whale Trail’s first Orca Talk of the season
 |   West Seattle news | Wildlife

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(Photo courtesy NOAA)

Their appearances are thrilling … their predicament, alarming. Get the latest about our local orcas next Thursday when The Whale Trail‘s first Orca Talk of the season features NOAA Fisheries’ Lynne Barre talking about “Endangered Southern Resident Killer Whales: Species in the Spotlight.” Tickets are available now for the 7 pm December 15th event at C & P Coffee Company (WSB sponsor).

Last year NOAA Fisheries launched the Species in the Spotlight initiative focused on stabilizing the populations of eight endangered species at very high risk of extinction. Southern Residents are one of the Species in the Spotlight.

With this effort NOAA is marshaling resources and focusing on partnerships to turn around the decline towards extinction and support conservation of endangered species. Lynne will highlight some recent recovery and conservation efforts for Southern Resident killer whales called for in the Species in the Spotlight Action Plan.

This is the first of the 2016/17 Orca Talk series hosted by The Whale Trail in West Seattle, with help from Seal Sitters. Join us to celebrate the seasonal return of the orcas to local waters, and do some holiday shopping too!

Buy tickets now to reserve your seat. And hurry! This will likely sell out.

Speaker Lynne Barre is the Branch Chief for Marine Mammals and Puget Sound Species for NOAAs Protected Resources division in Seattle. She has been with the agency for more than 15 years, implementing the Marine Mammal Protection Act and Endangered Species Act. Since 2003 she has worked on the endangered listing of the Southern Resident Killer Whales, designated critical habitat, developed and finalized a recovery plan, and implemented actions to conserve and recover the whales. As part of the recovery program, she developed an oil -spill response plan and protective regulations for killer whales in Washington.

Tickets are $5 (suggested donation), kids free – get yours now at brownpapertickets.com.

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SATURDAY: Christmas Ship makes three stops in West Seattle
December 9, 2016 3:10 pm
|      1 COMMENT
 |   Holidays | West Seattle news

(WSB reader photo by Candace from Christmas Ship’s past visit)

In case you haven’t seen it yet in the WSB West Seattle Holiday Guide, tomorrow’s the big day/night – the Argosy Cruises Christmas Ship makes three stops in West Seattle (3:25 pm at Lowman Beach, 4:10 pm at Alki Beach Park, 9:05 pm at Salty’s [WSB sponsor]). And when it visits Alki, there’s lots of holiday fun in addition to the shipboard Dickens Carolers serenading those on shore and on board. Just got this from Therese:

Family fun at Alki Bathhouse tomorrow Saturday 12/10! Live music including sing-along caroling combined with the Argosy Cruise Christmas Ship, and beverages and treats provided by Alki Community Center/Seattle Parks Department. Here’s the schedule:

3:30-3:50 Endolyne Children’s Choir
3:50-4:10 Band leads caroling
4:10-4:30 Christmas Ship (all head to the water’s edge to listen to on-board carolers)
4:30-4:40 Band leads a couple carols
4:40-5:00 Seattle Lutheran band
5:00-5:10 Band leads a couple carols

And just before the Christmas Ship’s arrival on Alki, you’re invited to a holiday celebration on the porch at the historic Log House Museum, 2-4 pm at 61st SW/SW Stevens – more information is on the Southwest Seattle Historical Society website.

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BIZNOTE: PCC West Seattle staying open through spring
December 9, 2016 2:03 pm
|      12 COMMENTS
 |   West Seattle businesses | West Seattle news

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(Rendering by strong>Hewitt, from September Design Review meeting)

As we’ve been reporting since last summer, PCC Natural Markets-West Seattle (WSB sponsor) will have a new, bigger store in the mixed-use development that is being built on the site of its current location. Today, PCC VP Heather Snavely has this update on the timeline:

This summer we announced that our West Seattle location will be redeveloped and, as a result, temporarily close in early 2017. We’re pleased to share that, based on the current development schedule, the store will remain open into May 2017.

We’re happy that we could be part of the holiday season this year with the West Seattle community, and will provide more details on timing of the closure as they solidify.

PCC is and will continue to be a tenant at 2749 California SW in The Admiral District; the site was bought by Madison Development Group, which is planning a four-story building with 110+ apartments. The project passed the first phase of Design Review three months ago and has at least one more review meeting to go, no date set yet.

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From Santa Claus to ukuleles, here’s what’s up for the rest of your West Seattle Friday
December 9, 2016 11:18 am
|      10 COMMENTS
 |   Holidays | West Seattle news

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Thanks to Mel for the photo of her kids Daizha and Bryson with their snowperson in Highland Park. We have a few other snow-day photos interspersed with our Friday preview here – first, highlights from the WSB West Seattle Holiday Guide:

SEE SANTA AT HOMESTREET BANK: HomeStreet Bank (WSB sponsor) “is throwing a Holiday Celebration at its West Seattle branch where photos with Santa are complimentary with a donation to the West Seattle Food Bank. Hot cider and cookies will be served.” 3-6 pm. “HomeStreet welcomes locals to come say hello to Santa and celebrate in the holiday season. Bank representatives are available at your request for questions or interviews.” (4022 SW Alaska)

LIGHT SHOW: Holiday light show tonight at 7 pm at Ounces in North Delridge. (3809 Delridge Way SW)

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(Snowy Alki! Photo by Paul Walchenbach)

POSADA NAVIDENA: You are invited to celebrate at the Posada Navideña at Denny International Middle School, 6:30 pm: “Fun-filled cultural night with food, music from Banda Vagos, and cultural activities.” All welcome; free. (2601 SW Kenyon)

CONCERT: West Seattle Community Orchestras‘ Symphony Orchestra performs Winter Folk Tales! “Come hear our top orchestra perform classic favorites based on folk tunes, including Ruslan & Ludmilla Overture (Glinka), Peer Gynt Suite (Grieg), Rumanian Folk Dances (Bartok), and Karelia Suite (Sibelius). No need to go off our West Seattle peninsula to hear great music!” 7:30 pm, Chief Sealth International High School auditorium, FREE, donations accepted. (2600 SW Thistle)

MIRACLE ON 34th STREET: Join Twelfth Night Productions this holiday season for “Miracle on 34th Street: A Live Radio Play.” Performance tonight at 7:30 pm at Kenyon Hall. Buy your ticket(s) online at this Brown Paper Tickets link or before the show at the venue box office. (7904 35th SW)

See MUCH more for tonight, this weekend, and beyond, in our Holiday Guide!

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(Snowperson fun in Gatewood – photo sent by Charis)

Now, from the year-round WSB West Seattle Event Calendar, inbox, and archives:

“BOBCAT BOB”: See Bob “Bobcat Bob” Rice live at C & P Coffee Company (WSB sponsor) 7-9 pm. (5612 California SW)

GIBBOUS MOON WALK: At Lincoln Park with naturalist Stewart Wechsler, 7 pm – details in our calendar listing. (8011 Fauntleroy Way SW)

HIGH-SCHOOL BASKETBALL: West Seattle HS hosts Ingraham at 8:30 tonight in the WSHS gym (3000 California SW) … Chief Sealth IHS hosts Cleveland at 8:30 tonight in the CSIHS gym (2600 SW Thistle).

UKULELE MADNESS: The Castaways perform tonight at Parliament Tavern, 9 pm. 21+. (4210 SW Admiral Way)

ST. JOHN & THE REVELATIONS: 9 pm at Whisky West in Morgan Junction. 21+. (6451 California SW)

3 BANDS … at The Skylark in North Delridge, 9 pm. Details in our calendar listing. (3803 Delridge Way SW)

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One week after announcing Myers Way encampment, city reps face skeptical community leaders
December 9, 2016 10:11 am
|      30 COMMENTS
 |   Myers Way | West Seattle news

By Linda Ball
Reporting for West Seattle Blog

To say that emotions ran high at last night’s meeting about the city’s plan for an authorized encampment on Myers Way is an understatement.

Led by George Scarola, the city’s director of homelessness, the meeting included an invited group of about 40 concerned neighborhood advocates, and escalated into raised voices and statements of clear dissatisfaction with the city, one week after Mayor Murray’s announcement of three new encampments around the city, including this one.

In an overview of the homeless problem citywide, Scarola said there were 3,000 unsheltered people on the streets of Seattle as he spoke, and even more if you counted those in shelters. Countywide, he said 10,000 are homeless, 4,500 of those unsheltered. “Something different is happening,” he said of the problem. “It’s a phenomenon that has become common.”

The city’s plan, he said, is to get homeless people only what they need as fast as possible – not a “Cadillac” but to get them sheltered. The city is working with various non-profit organizations to become more effective in solving this dilemma. In the meantime, the city needs to address those 3,000 people, without them living in parks, on school grounds or on sidewalks.

Folks living on the edge – under freeways, on the edge of parks – will be asked to move and given 72 hours to do so, Scarola said, with the offer of a warm place to stay. Camp Second Chance, which moved to the city-owned Myers Way Parcels last July, is currently unsanctioned, but is slated to be one of three new sanctioned homeless encampments within the city. 20 tents are there now; the city says 50 will be added. Rules would apply – it would be a clean and sober community, as its organizers say it is now. People would be allowed to bring partners and pets. Read More

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WEATHER, TRAFFIC, SCHOOLS: Post-snowfall Friday
December 9, 2016 5:31 am
|      41 COMMENTS
 |   West Seattle news | West Seattle weather

(WHERE HAS SDOT PLOWED/SANDED/SALTED? Go here. IS METRO RE-ROUTING? Go here. SCHOOL INFO: Scroll down)

(Click any view for a close-up; more cameras on the WSB Traffic page)

ORIGINAL REPORT 5:31 AM: Good morning! After a snowy night, schools are opening late today:

SEATTLE PUBLIC SCHOOLS: 2 hours late, buses on snow routes (full details here)
INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS:
Explorer West Middle School 10 am start
Westside School 10 am start
Our Lady of Guadalupe 10:30 am start
Holy Rosary 10:25 am start
Hope Lutheran (see comment): Students should arrive 10:15-10:30
Holy Family: 10 am start
SOUTH SEATTLE COLLEGE: Opening at 10 am

editor@westseattleblog.com with your school update – thanks!

TRANSIT: Metro says many routes are delayed. (See comments below for bus riders’ reports.)

ROADS: Side streets are the main challenge, but you might encounter slickness anywhere. It’s above freezing now, but not by much.

6:53 AM: We are continuing to update the school list. Also of note, the forecast: The “winter weather advisory” is set to expire at 8 am. Here’s the overnight “forecast discussion” (next one due around 9 am, same link).

7:11 AM: This is the kind of situation you might encounter on non-arterials:

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Kevin Freitas tweeted that photo: “Truck stuck SW 36th Ave, Alaska/Edmunds. They service The Mount & have to back in to their loading dock. Not today.”

7:57 AM: Thanks to Nick for this note, also mentioned in comments: “There’s a jackknifed 56 bus in the middle of Admiral, just before Admiral and California, on the hill down by the green belt.”

9:04 AM: Remember, schools are running late this morning, so you’ll see school buses, walkers, riders in the next hour or so that you usually wouldn’t at this time of day. While the main roads are mostly bare, still snow off the roads. Here’s Junction Plaza Park:

Just in from the Seattle Public Library:

Branch locations of The Seattle Public Library regularly open today, Friday, Dec. 9, will have a delayed start of noon due to the snow. The Central Library, 1000 Fourth Ave., will open at its 10 a.m. regular time.

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WEST SEATTLE SNOW: It’s here!
December 8, 2016 8:58 pm
|      24 COMMENTS
 |   West Seattle news | West Seattle weather

(Where has SDOT plowed/sanded/salted? Go here. Where is Metro re-routing? Go here.)

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(Thanks to Brian Presser of TouchTech Systems for the Junction snow photo)

8:58 PM: While we’ve had reports of flakes here and there for more than an hour, only now is it starting to get a bit more serious, so we’re launching tonight’s snow coverage to see how long it lasts and what the forecasters have to say.

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(Sunrise Heights snow photo by Jethro)

Photos appreciated – editor@westseattleblog.com – thanks! For now, the official alert level remains “Winter Weather Advisory,” in effect until 8 am Friday.

9:27 PM: Snowiest traffic camera so far is the one at the Fauntleroy ferry dock – the screengrab is from a few minutes ago. And Thomas Starks just sent this video from Alki:

WSB’s Christopher Boffoli caught the snowfall between Admiral and Alaska Junctions:

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Here’s the newest National Weather Service “forecast discussion,” saying this is playing out pretty much as they had expected, and that it’s still due to change over to rain. Then a few days down the road – there’s the chance of more Sunday/Monday, per the NWS.

9:54 PM: From Twitter:

Generally SPS won’t make a decision until early morning – we will of course be keeping watch for that. In the meantime, you can watch snow in the streetlights on the bridges via the “live video” links from West Seattle at the lower right of the city’s travelers-info map. In The Junction, for example, snow’s sticking on the road – just grabbed this traffic-cam view:

10:25 PM: 911 log has a report of wires down at Fauntleroy/Trenton. You can see emergency lights in this screengrab from the nearest traffic cam:

Not far away, from Tamsen Spengler of the West Seattle Timebank, a pastoral scene northeast of Morgan Junction:

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10:36 PM: Metro just announced it has some buses on snow routes, including some West Seattle/White Center-area routes.

10:55 PM: Be extra careful if you’re going out – sledding is under way on some hills:

That video was sent by Cynthia.

1:43 AM South Seattle College has announced a delayed opening today – 10 am.

5:30 AM: And Seattle Public Schools are running late too – 2-hour delay. We’re starting a morning weather/traffic/schools story next.

ADDED: A few more photos shared by WSB readers overnight. From David Williams, the “Nightmare on 45th” yard turned into a Snowmare:

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From Donna @ 49th/Dawson:

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Ribboncutting officially opens first building at The Whittaker
December 8, 2016 8:51 pm
|      8 COMMENTS
 |   4755 Fauntleroy | Development | West Seattle news

Photos by Christopher Boffoli for West Seattle Blog

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Two years after ceremonial groundbreaking launched construction of The Whittaker – West Seattle’s biggest mixed-use project ever – its first building at 4755 Fauntleroy Way SW is officially open, with a ribboncutting celebration today, including namesake Jim Whittaker, the West Seattle native who made history on Mount Everest. The lobby displays a photo of him on Everest in 1963:

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Whittaker’s partner Dianne Roberts told Christopher that they still have the ice axe and flags in the iconic photograph, as well as the camera used to shoot it. She said that the clothes he was wearing in the photo are now on display at the Bradford Washburn American Mountaineering Museum in Golden, Colorado.

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The ribboncutting marked the fact that residents are moving into the south building this month, and will follow in the north building next spring. Property manager Ashlie Quon of Windsor Communities told WSB’s Christopher Boffoli that the South building has 129 units complete and open, 39 of which are leased so far.

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Art for the site was commissioned from West Seattleite Troy Pillow – who also created the new kinetic sculpture in Junction Plaza Park. Some of his work is up outside the south entry:

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The lobby sections open today feature sitting areas with gas fireplaces, a “wine room” upstairs with a function area with a small kitchen just off it for events, a mailroom, and a separate package room.

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The large, open lobby features reclaimed wood throughout and a suspended Douglas Fir staircase (which leads up to the wine room/function area. That’s where some of today’s speeches took place.

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While the residential units are opening, the commercial tenants won’t start to open until next year. So far, as we reported last summer, they include – besides anchor tenant Whole Foods Market, taking the retail space in the north building – BECU, City MD, MOD Pizza, and T-Mobile.

West Seattle Chamber of Commerce CEO Lynn Dennis, among today’s speakers, said, “The Whittaker represents an example of creating density while preserving green spaces and celebrating the real character of West Seattle.” Jim Whittaker spoke too, saying he felt “lucky” to be born in West Seattle and that the new building was marvelous and he was delighted to be on hand for the opening.

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Water break in Highland Park
December 8, 2016 8:22 pm
|      3 COMMENTS
 |   Utilities | West Seattle news

Thanks for the tips about a water break at 11th and Barton in Highland Park. We just talked with Andy Ryan from Seattle Public Utilities. He says an eight-inch main is broken; they don’t know yet how the break happened but they first heard about it just after 4 this afternoon. 37 customers are affected. Crews are on the scene, but there’s no estimate of how long it’ll take to get it fixed.

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HIGHWAY 99 TUNNEL: More than 2/3 of the way
December 8, 2016 4:58 pm
|      1 COMMENT
 |   Alaskan Way Viaduct | Highway 99 tunnel | West Seattle news

While the Highway 99 tunneling machine hasn’t made much news lately, it’s continuing to dig steadily along, says WSDOT. Their latest twice-weekly update, published this afternoon, says it’s more than two-thirds of the way down the route – 6,337 of 9,270 feet. It’s already gone past the deepest point on the route and is starting to climb back toward the surface, currently in the zone beneath Belltown. The current estimated opening date remains early 2019, and as noted in this tweet, Viaduct demolition would follow over much of the rest of that year.

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WEST SEATTLE HISTORY: Hearing set for Hamm Building’s landmark nomination
December 8, 2016 3:33 pm
|      18 COMMENTS
 |   West Seattle history | West Seattle news

easystreet

Nine months after the Southwest Seattle Historical Society launched its campaign to get city-landmark status for two buildings in the heart of The Junction, a hearing date is set for the first one to be considered, the Hamm Building on the northwest corner of California/Alaska, where Easy Street Records is the anchor tenant. Here’s the official announcement from the city today, explaining how you can comment:

Seattle’s Landmarks Preservation Board will consider nomination of the Crescent-Hamm Building at 4302 SW Alaska Street/4559 California Avenue SW on Wednesday, January 4 at 3:30 p.m. The meeting will be held in Seattle City Hall (600 4th Avenue, Floor L2) in the Boards and Commissions Room L2-80.

The public is invited to attend the meeting and make comments. Written comments should be received by the Landmarks Preservation Board at the following mailing address by 3:00 p.m. on January 3, 2017:

Seattle Landmarks Preservation Board
Seattle Department of Neighborhoods
PO Box 94649
Seattle, WA 98124-4649

A copy of the Landmark Nomination is available for public review at the West Seattle Branch Library, 2306 42nd Avenue SW (206-684-7444), and the Seattle Department of Neighborhoods’ office in Seattle City Hall, 600 4th Avenue, 4th Floor (206-684-0228). It is also posted on the Department of Neighborhoods website, under the heading of “Current Nominations,” or you can view it here (PDF).

The landmark nominations for the Hamm and Campbell Buildings were officially submitted in September. No date is set yet for consideration of the Campbell Building. Despite its place in West Seattle history, The Junction currently has no city-designated landmarks – the nearest one is the old utility building at Dakota Place Park. You can find a list and map of all city landmarks here, along with more information about the designation process.

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West Seattle whale-watching: Orcas southbound again
December 8, 2016 2:20 pm
|    Comments Off on West Seattle whale-watching: Orcas southbound again
 |   Seen at sea | West Seattle news | Wildlife

The Whale Trail‘s Donna Sandstrom sends early warning that orcas might be swimming southbound off West Seattle before sunset. She reports that Orca Network‘s Kersti Muul reported them off Richmond Beach, and so she’ll be looking northward from Alki starting around 3 pm. Just an early alert since the weather’s good – for now! – and we have about two more hours of light.

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FOLLOWUP: Alki tree placed in tribute to Joel Eggert
December 8, 2016 1:45 pm
|      5 COMMENTS
 |   West Seattle news | West Seattle people

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That tree on the water side of the Alki Bathhouse isn’t a Christmas tree but rather a memorial tree. Relatives and friends of Joel Eggert (photo at right), the 46-year-old West Seattleite who died after his motorcycle crashed in Highland Park early Sunday, e-mailed to tell us about it. It’s there with Parks Department permission, and, according to Tonia, “People are encouraged to place notes and mementoes to remember Joel.” Stephanie says, “Tomorrow night at 3:30 pm there will be a sunset gathering for him and moment of silence.” And Mr. Eggert’s sister Stacey e-mailed to share the news of the crowdfunding account for his children. She says Mr. Eggert’s last wish is being fulfilled – donating his organs to save others. Plans for an official memorial event are in the works, we’ve also learned, and we’re expecting an update on that soon.

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WEST SEATTLE WEATHER: Some snow still expected tonight
December 8, 2016 10:59 am
|      23 COMMENTS
 |   West Seattle news | West Seattle weather

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(The Olympics, photographed today by James Bratsanos)

10:59 AM: It’s midmorning and that means the National Weather Service is out with its newest “forecast discussion.” The outlook right now, the NWS says, is for snow tonight, but not for long: “A front will reach the area this evening. With cold air in place, the precipitation will be snow, then turning to rain by daybreak for most areas,” at least an inch before the switch. Read the full outlook here.

7:23 PM: We’re hearing reports of some flake sightings in West Seattle. If and when it starts to get significant, we’ll launch new coverage.

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What’s up for your West Seattle Thursday
December 8, 2016 9:00 am
|      2 COMMENTS
 |   Holidays | West Seattle news

First, from the WSB West Seattle Holiday Guide:

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BOOK FAIR AT GATEWOOD: The community is invited:

The Gatewood Elementary Winter Book Fair is happening now! All of our students (K-5) have worked very hard in Ms. Rachel’s art class to create beautiful artwork for our winter theme inspired by the book The Whisper by Pamela Zagarenski.

The book fair is an important event at Gatewood that promotes literacy and the excitement of reading by bringing in a vast selection of books that kids want to read. Not only does the fair help to inspire a real culture of reading, but it also raises necessary funds to support our library program.

Community members are welcome to come shop at the fair. We accept cash, checks and credit.

Today – Until 4 pm, and again 5:30 pm-7:30 pm.

Friday – 7:15 am to 12:15 pm

(If you’d like to make a donation so that ALL children at Gatewood have the opportunity to purchase a book, you can donate at C & P Coffee and Caffé Ladro.)

(4320 SW Myrtle)

ARTS & CRAFTS AT LAFAYETTE: Shop a selection of goods made by both students and adults! Lafayette Elementary is hosting an Art Show and Craft Fair at the school from 5-8 pm. (California/Lander)

CHAMBER PARTY: “Mix, Mingle, & Jingle” with the West Seattle Chamber of Commerce, 5:30-8 pm party at the Sanctuary at Admiral. Buy your ticket online. (42nd SW & SW Lander)

WEST SEATTLE ART WALK: Holiday edition!, 6-9 pm. Check wsartwalk.com for artists/venues.

SHOP LATE THURSDAY: Many West Seattle Junction merchants are open late!

And from the year-round WSB West Seattle Event Calendar:

FAMILY STORY TIME: 10:30 am, bring the kid(s) to Southwest Library for stories, rhymes, and songs. (35th SW/SW Henderson)

PRESCHOOL ART CLASS: 11:30 am at Delridge Library – details in our calendar listing. (5423 Delridge Way SW)

UPTON FLATS INFORMATIONAL MEETING: 3:30-4:30 pm at High Point Community Center, the developers of High Point’s future Upton Flats mixed-use project are having an informational meeting for community members with questions. Site work is expected to start soon, according to the notice a resident shared with us. (6920 34th SW)

RAVEN’S NEST WEST GRAND OPENING: As previewed here on Wednesday, tonight is the official grand opening of this new shop and art gallery in The Junction, during WS Art Walk, 6-9 pm. (4557 Glenn Way)

STANDING ROCK BENEFIT: Annie O’Neill & Amy Denio, tonight at Whisky West, 8-10 pm. (6451 California SW)

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TRAFFIC & WEATHER: Thursday watch
December 8, 2016 7:02 am
|      3 COMMENTS
 |   West Seattle news | West Seattle traffic alerts

(SDOT MAP with travel times/video links; is the ‘low bridge’ closed? LOOK HERE)

(Click any view for a close-up; more cameras on the WSB Traffic page)

7:02 AM: Good morning! Cold but no snow this morning – that’s expected later today.

One outbound-commute problem: A crash backing up northbound I-5:

LOW-BRIDGE ALERT: For drivers and riders, this is something of a reverse alert – the low bridge will NOT be opening for marine traffic between approximately 8 am and noon today, because of maintenance that SDOT announced a few weeks ago. They say it will NOT affect vehicle traffic.

7:22 AM: Two lanes have reopened at the scene of the I-5 crash, but WSDOT says one is still blocked and backups are big.

7:56 AM: The scene is clear but the backups aren’t.

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Reader report: Recognize this car?
December 7, 2016 11:45 pm
|      7 COMMENTS
 |   Gatewood | West Seattle news

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The photo and report are from Kate:

There is a car on my block that has been there for a week or so, and has not moved. The front and back plates have been removed. I suspect it is a stolen vehicle and that someone may be looking for it. I have reported it as an abandoned vehicle. It is in the Gatewood neighborhood, on 37th Ave SW, just to the south of Holden. It is a black, late 90s, early 2000s Volvo wagon with a lot of bumper stickers. The door to the gas tank is also missing. There appears to be some kind of wood shelves in the back.

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